Original Linoleum Cut Art Prints using the linocut method are forms of relief printing or printing from a raised surface. Woodcuts, wood engravings and collagraphs are other examples of this medium.

The Chinese first produced woodcuts in the ninth century. Printmaking in this form came to Europe as it emerged from the Middle Ages and began the Renaissance in the early 1400's. Linoleum, a softer carving medium, was invented in England in 1863.

To create a linocut, the artist must decide upon the subject matter and then draw the image onto a piece of linoleum, often attached to a wooden block. This becomes the template for the final piece of art. For visual accuracy, consideration must be given while drawing the original because images are reversed when printed.

With sharp gouging tools the artist carefully carves into the linoleum removing what will ultimately become the white of the image. What is left untouched becomes the black or colored part of the image. A slip during this process creates a line and the part removed becomes a permanent element in the final product. If too much is removed, the only recourse is to start over with a new piece of linoleum and hope for a steadier hand.

Several artist proofs are produced during the carving process to see how the image is progressing and determine whether additional carving is needed. When satisfied, the artist can proceed to the final printing of the edition.

To print a linoleum block, a roller is used to apply a thin and even coat of ink to the surface. Too much ink and the thin lines and crevices fill in and cannot be seen in the piece of art. Too little ink and too much of th paper shows through the final product. Waste of paper and ink is unavoidable. After inking and pressing the acid-free paper onto the linoleum, the print must be allowed to dry. This can take days depending upon whether water, rubber or oil based ink is used. There are subtle and sometimes noticeable differences in each print as it is nearly impossible to always ink and press and get the exact same results from copy to copy. This is what makes each print an original. The method of pressing the paper onto the linoleum can be as simple as using the back of a wooden spoon or a brayer to roll and imprint the paper with the inked surface. This artist has utilized an antique press at the Museum of Printing History in Houston, Texas for the majority of her prints.

Only acceptable prints are signed and numbered by the artist. A Documentation sheet attesting to the authenticity accompanies all Original Linoleum Cut Art Prints by Peggy Woods.

To view all of her linocuts plus a few pencil drawings you can check out her website at www.gallery3.net/woods. She creates other types of art as well and her art is carried in various venues in and around the Houston area.